Ahn Cheol-soo: "I am the only candidate who can prevent party division... I have deep trust with Yoon"

Regarding the party convention timing, the possibility of May to June next year has even been mentioned

Ahn Cheol-soo, Member of the People Power Party (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Bo-ryeong] Ahn Cheol-soo, a member of the People Power Party, emphasized that he is the "only candidate who can prevent division within the party" ahead of the party convention.

On the 25th, Ahn said on YTN Radio's "News King Park Ji-hoon" program, "Some people say that my position within the party is weak," adding, "I actually think that is a strength."

He continued, "When you come to the party, many lawmakers are very afraid of the nomination process," and "It has become like a war. I want to clearly say that I have no one to favor in the nominations, and I can conduct the nominations most fairly, so I am the only candidate who can prevent division within the party."

He further explained, "Those who say they have deep roots in the party have many people to favor," adding, "Then there is a high possibility that they will push out current lawmakers or party committee chairs in their regions and install their own people, which can cause significant internal strife. I want to say that such things will not happen with me."

Ahn also highlighted his "communication" with President Yoon Suk-yeol as a strength. He said, "I served as the transition committee chairman. There is no one who can communicate better with the president than I can," adding, "Although I used the term 'joint guarantor,' I am the person most desperate for the success of the Yoon Suk-yeol administration. Therefore, the president and I strongly share the perception of winning the general election. There is deep trust."

Regarding the upcoming party convention, he said, "There are uncertainties now," adding, "Originally, it was thought to be around February next year, but if the emergency committee conducts evaluations of various regional leaders and goes through these processes, it may take a few more months. In that case, it could be around May or June next year."

When the host asked about rumors of Minister of Justice Han Dong-hoon’s challenge for party leadership and candidacy in the general election, Ahn responded, "Minister Han is an excellent person with great potential," adding, "However, his decision on his position is something he must make himself, so it is not appropriate for me to comment. I believe Minister Han will wisely consider what choice will benefit the government and the party. He is a wise person, so I think he will make a good decision."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.